Amid changing dynamics in the Middle East, Turkey seeks to emerge as a leader

Turkey's attempts at expanding its Middle East footprint has put it in a position of power, coming head-to-head with Israel. Transcript AYESHA RASCOE, HOST: Power dynamics in the Middle East are shifting. That's because of the wars in Gaza and Iran and Washington signaling a desire to decrease its footprint in the region. And as that happens, one country, in particular, is making a play for greater influence. With its growing defense industry, its role as a mediator in multiple wars and its cultural soft power, Turkey wants to cement itself as the leader of a new Middle East order. NPR's Hadeel Al-Shalchi reports from Istanbul.HADEEL AL-SHALCHI, BYLINE: On August 7, the leaders of Saudi Arabia, Turkey and Pakistan sat side by side at wooden desks in Mecca to sign a historic pact, the Mecca Joint Defense Agreement. It combines Saudi's oil wealth, Pakistan's nuclear capabilities and Turkey's expanding defense industry. It features NATO Article 5-style language that an attack on one country is an attack on all and a promise to share defense intelligence.(SOUNDBITE OF ARCHIVED RECORDING)PRESIDENT RECEP TAYYIP ERDOGAN: (Non-English language spoken).AL-SHALCHI: According to President Rec...